Blackhawks Player Grades: Alex Vlasic

Alex Vlasic took a huge step forward as a 22-year-old in 2023-24. Vlasic averaged 21:29 of ice time over 76 games. Although his offensive output wasn't extraordinary (two goals, 14 assists), Vlasic became the top lockdown defenseman for the Blackhawks. Despite an awful season in which the Blackhawks were outscored 289-178 as a team, Vlasic carried a -4 rating. Plus/minus isn't everything, but Vlasic was deployed against the top lines on opposing teams. He was a defensive stalwart for Chicago.

Vlasic's play was so incredible this past season that he earned a huge contract extension. Following the final year of his entry-level deal, Vlasic signed a six-year extension worth $4.6 million per season. The 23-year-old should be a Blackhawk for the foreseeable future.

Player Grades

Jonnie Nonnie's Grade: A

Aside from Connor Bedard (given), Alex Vlasic was the Blackhawks' biggest bright spot in 2023-24. You can't teach size, and at 6-foot-6, Vlasic has plenty of it, which he learned to use skillfully. The Blackhawks shouldn't count on the local product for gaudy point production, but they can certainly rely on him to play on their shutdown defensive pair.

Tony Marchese's Grade: A

What a year for Mr. Pickles. The 23-year-old defenseman came into his own at the NHL level this past season after two quick cups of tea in 2021 and '22. Alex Vlasic appeared in 76 games and averaged 21:29 of ice time per game in 2023-24. Those are solid minutes for a young defenseman, but they were rightfully earned with his performance on the ice. One of the best "steps forward" for a developing prospect in this rebuild, Vlasic earns himself an A from me.

Ron Luce's Grade: A

As Jonnie mentioned, Alex Vlasic's season was one of the biggest bright spots for Kyle Davidson and the Blackhawks. Individually, the Blackhawks have found themselves a shutdown defenseman for the foreseeable future. As an organization, the Blackhawks have shown they can develop defensemen under their staff and care at the AHL level. Vlasic's season is an A from me, but there's so much more to be excited about as well. 

What's On Tap Next?

Alex Vlasic has his money and term. Now, the expectation is for him to continue being a shutdown defenseman while other young blue-liners develop and join him in Chicago. For now, he's one of the few young players we'll have the pleasure of watching at the NHL level this season for the Blackhawks.

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Alex Vlasic? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!